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Young bombing victim becomes symbol of Boston tragedy

(CBS News) The picture of Martin Richard was taken after a school project last April. Today, it is heartbreaking.

Boston Marathon bombing victim Martin Richard.
Boston Marathon bombing victim Martin Richard. Lucia Brawley / Personal Photo

In Dorchester, Mass., friends left flowers and a soccer ball for Martin, who played on the local team.

"He brought a smile to everyone's face," said Jose Calderon, whose kids were Martin's teammates. "Whether we won or lost, he was always one of the brightest stars on the team."

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Family friends told us the Richards were nearly always together, like on Monday at the finish line of the race. They often ran together as a family.

Martin's mother and younger sister were also injured in the blast. His father Bill released a statement asking for patience and privacy.

The Richard family is pictured here in this photo from April 26, 2009. Clockwise from left is older son, Henry, mother Denise, father Bill, younger son, Martin, and daughter Jane. Ashmont Adams Neighborhood Association

"My dear son Martin has died from injuries sustained in the attack on Boston," the statement said. "My wife and daughter are both recovering from serious injuries. We thank our family and friends, those we know and those we have never met, for their thoughts and prayers."

Many people in Boston are thinking about a father and a family who lost a son and a neighborhood that lost one of its brightest lights.

Martin's mother suffered a serious head injury, and his seven-year-old sister lost one of her legs.

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